Tinubu's Cabinet Reshuffle: 11 Ministers on the Chopping Block

11 Ministers Face the Axe in Tinubu's Cabinet Overhaul

President Bola Tinubu's cabinet reshuffle is imminent, but the exact timeline remains unclear, according to Bayo Onanuga...

President Bola Tinubu's administration introduces policies to tackle Nigeria's socio-economic challenges: CNG bus rollout, ministerial performance bonds, and minimum wage implementation.

Rumors are swirling about an impending cabinet reshuffle by President Bola Tinubu, with several ministers potentially facing the axe. While the full list of those affected hasn't been officially confirmed, here are some names that have been mentioned:

Hanatu Musawa Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy 

Lola Ade-John, whose portfolio hasn't been specified 

Bayo Adelabu, whose portfolio also hasn't been disclosed 

Gboyega Oyetola, former Governor of Osun State

Lateef Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria

Senator Geidam, whose portfolio hasn't been specified 

Uche Nnaji, whose portfolio also hasn't been disclosed 

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy

Bunmi Tunji Ojo, Minister of Interior

Minister of Education, whose name hasn't been specified

These ministers are reportedly under scrutiny due to various reasons, including underperformance, lack of party affiliation, and allegiance to rival factions within the APC. However, it's essential to note that these claims are speculative and haven't been officially confirmed.

A cabinet reshuffle is looming in Nigeria, with up to 11 ministers potentially facing dismissal, according to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Onanuga made this announcement on September 25 at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, alongside O'tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media.

This development comes as no surprise, given the president's commitment to re-evaluating his cabinet. Onanuga, a veteran journalist and former Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, has been a key figure in shaping the president's communication strategy since his appointment in October 2023. His revelation has sparked speculation about the fate of the affected ministers and potential replacements.

Highlights 

Cabinet Reshuffle Imminent: Up to 11 ministers may be dismissed

Announcement Source: Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy

Presidential Villa Briefing: Onanuga accompanied by O'tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant on Digital and New Media

As the situation unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how this cabinet reshuffle impacts the country's governance and development.

President Bola Tinubu's cabinet reshuffle is imminent, but the exact timeline remains unclear. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed the reshuffle but didn't provide a specific date. Sources suggest the announcement could come later this week, although it was initially expected after the Federal Executive Council meeting on September 23.

The postponement has sparked curiosity, with many wondering which ministers will be affected. Onanuga remained tight-lipped about the details, but insiders reveal that up to 11 ministers might lose their jobs. 

The reshuffle aims to improve governance performance amid economic challenges. President Tinubu seeks to re-evaluate his cabinet's performance, particularly those who have fallen below expectations regarding his Renewed Hope agenda.

He said, “It's true President Bola Tinubu has plans to reshuffle his cabinet, but I can't say specifically whether that will be done before the independence celebration on October 1.”

President Bola Tinubu's cabinet, formed in August 2023, is on the verge of a significant shake-up. Reports suggest that at least 11 ministers will be replaced, and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila is likely to be among those departing. Gbajabiamila, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, assumed his role as Chief of Staff after resigning his membership in the House.

This development comes as President Tinubu seeks to re-evaluate his cabinet's performance, particularly those who have fallen short of expectations regarding his Renewed Hope agenda. The reshuffle aims to improve governance performance amid economic challenges.

Key Cabinet Changes:

Chief of Staff: Femi Gbajabiamila likely to step down

Ministerial Positions: At least 11 ministers expected to be replaced

The exact timeline for the reshuffle remains unclear, but sources indicate that the announcement could come soon. As the situation unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how this cabinet reshuffle impacts the country's governance and development.

Rumors are swirling about potential successors to Femi Gbajabiamila's role as Chief of Staff. Babatunde Fashola, former Minister of Works and Housing, is reportedly in the running. If he declines, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the current Principal Secretary to the President, is considered a strong alternative.

Wale Edun, Nigeria's Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, is expected to get support from a junior minister to strengthen the economic team. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, is the top contender for this role, bringing his expertise in fiscal policy and tax reforms to the table.

As Minister of Finance, Wale Edun has been championing digitization and fiscal reforms to boost Nigeria's economy. With Oyedele on board, the duo can tackle pressing issues like reducing Nigeria's debt burden, fixing unemployment, and stimulating economic growth. Edun's experience as a former Lagos State Commissioner of Finance and founder of Denham Management Limited will also be complemented by Oyedele's expertise.

This potential partnership is exciting news for Nigeria's economic landscape, which Edun aims to fundamentally reshape through comprehensive fiscal and tax reforms, transparency, and equitable resource distribution.

Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, is facing serious allegations that may lead to decisive action. Insiders reveal that her ministry might be dissolved due to widespread corruption and malfeasance under her watch. 

Specifically, Edu was suspended from her position in January 2024 after being accused of diverting ₦585 million in ministry funds to a personal bank account. This scandal led to an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which uncovered a staggering ₦30 billion allegedly embezzled through multiple bank accounts.

The allegations against Edu have sparked concerns about the effectiveness of the ministry in addressing humanitarian crises and poverty alleviation. As the youngest minister in Nigeria's Fourth Republic, Edu's appointment was initially seen as a positive step towards bringing fresh perspectives to the government. However, the corruption scandal has cast a shadow over her tenure.

It remains to be seen whether the ministry will be dissolved or restructured in response to these allegations. One thing is certain, though - the Nigerian government must take decisive action to address corruption and ensure that humanitarian efforts are not undermined by malfeasance.

The major cabinet reshuffle is looming in Nigeria, putting several ministers on notice. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Ishak Salaco, Minister of State, Environment and Ecological Management, Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, and Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, are all at risk of losing their positions.

The reshuffle may also involve reassigning some ministers to different ministries, while those deemed underperforming will likely face dismissal. This move aims to improve governance performance amid economic challenges. Notably, a minister from the previous Buhari administration may be reappointed under President Tinubu's administration, signaling a potential blend of old and new faces in the cabinet.

Ministers at Risk:

Bosun Tijani: Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy

Ishak Salaco: Minister of State, Environment and Ecological Management

Atiku Bagudu: Minister of Budget and Economic Planning

Doris Anite: Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo: Minister of Interior

Potential Changes:

Reassignment of ministers to different ministries

Dismissal of underperforming ministers

Reappointment of a minister from the Buhari administration

These developments reflect President Tinubu's commitment to re-evaluating his cabinet's performance, particularly those who have fallen short of expectations regarding his Renewed Hope agenda.

President Tinubu's administration is on the verge of a significant cabinet reshuffle, fueled by mounting public dissatisfaction with the performance of his 45-member cabinet. As the one-year anniversary of his presidency approaches, Nigerians are increasingly calling for change to tackle the country's pressing economic challenges.

The economic landscape in Nigeria is indeed challenging, with a 26% inflation rate and pressure on the naira. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has acknowledged these struggles, suggesting that Nigeria consider IMF financing to address external imbalances.

Economic Challenges Facing Nigeria:

High Inflation: 26% inflation rate, affecting the purchasing power of Nigerians

Naira Pressure: The naira's value has been declining, impacting businesses and individuals alike

Unemployment: High unemployment rates, particularly among young people.

Manufacturing Sector: The sector's growth has been sluggish, hindering economic diversification.

A cabinet reshuffle could bring in fresh perspectives and expertise to address these challenges. Some speculate that ministers who have underperformed may be dismissed or reassigned. The reshuffle may also involve reappointing a minister from the previous Buhari administration.

As Nigeria navigates these economic challenges, the cabinet reshuffle is seen as a crucial step towards revitalizing the economy and improving the lives of Nigerians.

President Bola Tinubu's administration is facing mounting pressure to replace underperforming ministers with more capable professionals to address Nigeria's socio-economic challenges. Key stakeholders agree that this change is necessary to prevent further decline. In response, Tinubu has instructed his ministers to showcase their achievements and the administration's accomplishments, as announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

Notably, some ministers have demonstrated promise, particularly in areas like economic reforms, infrastructure development, agriculture, social welfare, education, and health. However, the administration still faces significant challenges, including insecurity, corruption, and high inflation.

Key Areas for Improvement:

Security: Addressing insecurity issues, such as kidnapping, insurgency, and banditry, to create a stable environment for economic growth

Corruption: Tackling corruption, including the reported diversion of N44 billion from the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP

Economic Stability: Implementing policies to control inflation, manage currency fluctuations, and promote economic stability.

To address these challenges, Tinubu's administration has initiated policies like the rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, ministerial performance bonds, and minimum wage implementation. These efforts aim to enhance accountability, improve efficiency, and promote economic growth.

President Bola Tinubu's administration has introduced several key policies to tackle Nigeria's socio-economic challenges. 

Three notable initiatives include:

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Bus Rollout: Providing affordable and environmentally friendly transportation, reducing reliance on gasoline-powered vehicles.

Ministerial Performance Bonds: 

Enhancing accountability and efficiency by setting key performance indicators (KPIs) for ministers and heads of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).

Minimum Wage Implementation: 

Introducing a new national minimum wage to address the rising cost of living and improve workers' welfare.

These policies demonstrate President Tinubu's commitment to:

• Driving economic growth
• Improving accountability
• Enhancing the overall quality of life for Nigerians

President Bola Tinubu's administration can revitalize public trust and momentum by making strategic changes. Replacing underperforming ministers with more capable professionals would be a significant step forward. Additionally, highlighting the administration's achievements, such as economic reforms, infrastructure development, and social welfare initiatives, would help showcase their commitment to progress.

By showcasing successes in areas like:

Economic Reforms: removing fuel subsidies and floating the Nigerian naira to attract foreign investment and boost exports

Infrastructure Development: constructing the Lagos-Ibadan Motorway and expanding the rail network

Social Welfare: implementing student loans and improving access to education

Agriculture: revitalizing the sector to reduce reliance on oil revenue

the administration can demonstrate its efforts to address Nigeria's challenges.

However, it's crucial to acknowledge the persisting issues, such as insecurity, high inflation, and poverty. Addressing these concerns will require sustained focus, effective governance, and collaboration with stakeholders.

Tinubu's government can regain public trust and momentum, ultimately moving Nigeria forward by balancing transparency about challenges with showcasing achievements. 

President Bola Tinubu's cabinet reshuffle is imminent, and some ministers are on edge. According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, certain ministers have been hesitant to publicly highlight their achievements, contributing to the perception that the government isn't making progress. However, Onanuga emphasized that the Tinubu administration has actually made significant strides in policy initiatives.

O'tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media, revealed that President Tinubu has already received performance reports on his cabinet members, which will play a crucial role in determining the upcoming reshuffle decisions. This move is likely aimed at addressing public dissatisfaction with the government's performance, particularly on issues like hunger, poverty, and insecurity.

Key Areas of Concern:

Economic Stability: Managing inflation, currency fluctuations, and promoting economic growth

Security: Addressing insecurity issues, such as kidnapping, insurgency, and banditry

Corruption: Tackling corruption, including the reported diversion of funds

The cabinet reshuffle is expected to bring in fresh perspectives and expertise to tackle these challenges. With the President's desire to re-evaluate his cabinet's performance, some ministers may be replaced or reassigned. The exact timing of the reshuffle remains uncertain, but it's clear that President Tinubu is committed to making changes to improve his administration's impact.

“We also need to realize that the President's decision to reshuffle is also based on empirical evidence. He said during the retreat for the ministers that he was going to have periodic reviews, and the decisions or the information extracted from these reviews will be used to make that final decision. I know he's gotten a couple of reports, and as Mr. Onanuga has said, when he's ready to make changes, I believe he will,” he said.

A recent evaluation by stakeholders has revealed that, apart from three ministers, the majority of President Tinubu's cabinet members have not met expectations in delivering on their key responsibilities. Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, and Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, are the exceptions, having demonstrated satisfactory performance.

This assessment is likely part of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Policy of Nigeria, which aims to address challenges in policy implementation and ensure effective governance. The evaluation process may have considered key performance indicators for federal ministries, such as those outlined in the Compendium of Federal Ministries' Key Performance Indicators.

The stakeholders' evaluation may have also taken into account the capacity of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to implement monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mandates. This involves assessing the M&E systems, processes, and outcomes to identify areas for improvement.

The findings of this evaluation are crucial in informing President Tinubu's cabinet reshuffle decisions, ensuring that underperforming ministers are held accountable and replaced with more capable professionals. This move is expected to revitalize public trust and momentum, addressing Nigeria's socio-economic challenges.